Bottesford NHW Alert: Theft from Garden Shed

Another garden shed in the Grantham Road area was entered sometime between Fri 7th  and Sat 22 September. A valuable mountain bike, a cycle helmet, a hydration pack and a socket set were stolen. This follows similar attacks in this area a few weeks ago. It would seem wise for anyone with a garden shed or other outbuildings to review their security:

 

• Where possible remove more valuable items to a safer location in the house or garage
 

• As far as possible restrict access to sheds by locking/bolting gates and ensuring that garden fences are secure
 

• Fit a shed alarm - these are available from B&Q and Argos. They cost under £20 and are simple to fit taking about 15 minutes.
 

• If your shed has external hinges (eg T hinges) it is easy for a thief to gain access by unscrewing the screws. For each hinge replace two screws with coach bolts secured through the timber - one through the frame and one through the door.
 

• Standard hasp and staple or Breton bolts, typically used to secure sheds, offer little resistance to the most basic bolt croppers. Replace with heavy duty/ high security alternatives available from Homebase or most locksmiths costing less than £15.
 

• If your shed has windows, glass or plastic, fit additional timber or metal bars inside the window frame so that if the window is broken or removed access is still restricted.
 

• If possible improve lighting around the shed.
 

Remember that most thieves are looking for easy pickings. The harder you make it for them, the more chance is that they will look elsewhere.
 

John Shilton
 

Principal Coordinator
 

Bottesford Parish Neighbourhood Watch

 

(Reproduced from Bottesford NHW blog, 24th Sept)

Gardien Comment:  All the above is sound advice. More advice on Shed Security can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm